Camaro ZL1 Convertible Revealed Ahead of LA Auto Show Debut

Get AutoGuide.com in your Inbox

Like AutoGuide.com on Facebook

It’s little surprise that Chevy has decided to offer its new Camaro ZL1 as a convertible, it just wasn’t expected to arrive so soon. Out-powering the Shelby GT500 by 30-hp, the 580-hp ZL1 drop top is the most powerful convertible model Chevrolet has ever built.

In fact, Chevy is touting the car’s power and capability, even comparing it to vastly more expensive (but less powerful) European models like the 530-hp Porsche 911 Turbo S, the 518-hp Mercedes SL63 AMG and the 470-hp Aston Martin DB9 Volante.

“The Camaro ZL1 convertible will be one of the most powerful and most capable, convertibles available at any price,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “This is a car that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you drop the top – or hit the gas.”

Much like the standard Camaro drop-top the ZL1 Convertible gets numerous chassis reinforcements, including a strut tower brace, a transmission reinforcement brace, an underbody tunnel brace, plus a front “X” brace and rear “V” braces. Beyond those upgrades, Chevy reinforced the A-pillars, the top of the windshield, and the rocker panels. To help deliver maximum performance, the ZL1 Convertible gets GM’s Magnetic Ride shock absorbers, as well as the Performance Traction Management system from the Corvette ZR1.

Set to go on sale next year as a 2013 model year car, look for plenty of photos with the car’s official debut planned for the LA Auto Show next month.

Get AutoGuide.com in your Inbox

Like AutoGuide.com on Facebook

More Auto News...

Carl

Modern dash with Navigation and automatic climate control please! For 2012 only 3 Chevrolet models still don’t offer these features: Sonic, Impala, Camaro, Why? European Sonic and Spark both do(automatic climate control), their your smallest cars?
I speak for all cars!

Steve

For around the 50k mark, it is amazing to me that the quality of the materials, including fit and finish of the interior is still poor. Why can’t they improve such finishing touches such as gaps in door panels and ergonomics? Yes it has power, but make me feel as if the car I am sitting in is worthy of the cost, and at least comparable in workmanship to other vehicles in this price range. Have you ever sat in a 20k import? Why is the quality of the interior fit and finish better. I want the whole package.

We use cookies to improve your experience on this website and so that ads you see online can be tailored to your online browsing interests.
We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies.
Tell me more |
Cookie Preferences